Water Saving Toilets: How to Reduce Toilet Water Usage

What are Water Saving Toilets?

The average toilet installed before the 1990s uses anywhere from 3 to 7 gallons per flush (GPF). That adds up quickly, especially in households with multiple members. In contrast, modern water saving toilets use as little as 1.28 GPF, which is more than 50% less water per flush.

Water saving toilets are designed with more efficient flushing systems. They often rely on pressure-assisted or gravity-assisted technology to move waste with less water, maintaining performance while conserving resources.

Why Reducing Toilet Water Usage Matters

Small changes at home can make a big difference when it comes to water use. Toilets are often overlooked, but they’re one of the most water-intensive fixtures in any household. Upgrading to a water-saving model is a simple, high-impact way to conserve resources, cut utility costs, and support a more sustainable future.

Environmental Benefits

Toilets are typically the largest source of water use in the home. By switching to a more efficient toilet, you’re directly reducing the demand on municipal water systems, lowering energy usage tied to water treatment, and helping mitigate the effects of drought in water-stressed regions.

Utility Cost Savings

Less water per flush means lower monthly bills, and over time that adds up. Toilets account for 24% of the average household’s water costs making them a prime area for impact. Homes that switch to efficient toilets can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year, which can mean over $170 in annual savings on water costs alone.

Water Saving Toilet Types: Which One is Right for You?

Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets are a foundational type of high-efficiency toilet, using 1.6 GPF or less. They marked a major shift in water conservation when first introduced in 1994 and remain a popular upgrade from pre-1994 models that can use over 3.5 GPF. However, compared to dual flush toilets, low-flow models are now considered a more basic solution — offering less flexibility and ultimately less water savings.

While they still significantly reduce water use, the single-flush design means every flush uses the same amount of water, regardless of the waste type. For households focused on maximum efficiency, dual flush toilets offer a more advanced approach.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Easy to install with standard fixtures
• Effective upgrade from older, inefficient toilets

Cons:

• Single flush option = higher average water use than dual flush
• Less adaptable to varying flush needs

Dual Flush Toilets

Dual flush toilets are a water-efficient solution that offer two flush options: a low-volume flush for liquid waste, typically using around 0.8 GPF, and a higher-volume flush for solid waste, usually around 1.28 GPF or less. This split-flush design allows users to choose the appropriate amount of water for each flush, reducing overall water usage without sacrificing performance.

This functionality makes dual flush toilets particularly effective in households with frequent flushing, where liquid waste accounts for the majority of usage. Over time, this can lead to substantial water and cost savings — often exceeding what’s possible with traditional low-flow toilets. While dual flush toilets may come at a slightly higher upfront cost, their long-term savings and environmental benefits make them a great investment for homes looking to save money and conserve resources.

Pros:

• Greater control and efficiency
• Ideal for households looking to maximize savings

Cons:

• May cost more upfront
• Users must understand and consistently use the correct flush

Low-Flow vs. Dual Flush Toilets

Wondering how these two stack up? Here's a quick breakdown:

WaterSense Certified Toilets

When shopping for a water-saving toilet, one of the best indicators of performance and efficiency is the WaterSense label. Backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this certification ensures that a toilet meets rigorous criteria for both water savings and flushing effectiveness. WaterSense-certified toilets use at least 20% less water than the current federal standard of 1.6 GPF, without compromising performance.

Toilet Tank Bags and Retrofits

Not ready for a full toilet replacement or renting? You can still save water with a toilet tank displacement bag, which sits in your toilet’s tank and reduces the amount of water released with each flush. These bags typically save about 0.5 to 1.25 gallon per flush, depending on your current tank size. Just be sure that the bag doesn’t interfere with any of the flushing mechanisms, because this can cause your toilet to leak.

Another common retrofit is the adjustable flapper valve or fill cycle diverter, which fine-tunes how much water your toilet uses during the refill phase. These upgrades are ideal for older toilets that still function well mechanically but use more water than modern models.

How to Use and Maintain a Water Saving Toilet

Proper Usage Tips

For dual flush toilets, educate household members on which button or lever corresponds to liquid or solid waste. Avoid using harsh chemicals or flushing wipes — even if they’re labeled "flushable” as they can do damage to your plumbing, wastewater treatment equipment, and to the environment.

Maintenance Best Practices

• Check for silent leaks regularly (drop dye into the tank and watch for color in the bowl).
• Clean the bowl and tank every few months to prevent buildup.
• Replace the flapper valve every few years to maintain flush efficiency.

End-of-Life and Disposal Tips

If you're replacing an old toilet, check if your city has recycling programs for porcelain toilets and sinks. In some cases, old toilets can be crushed and repurposed as roadbed material. Avoid putting them in landfills if better options are available.

How Much Can You Save by Upgrading Your Toilet?

Switching to a WaterSense-labeled toilet can reduce water usage by up to 60%, translating to:

• 13,000 gallons saved per year
• $170 in annual water bill savings
• $3,400 saved over the life of the toilet

Rebates and Incentives

In addition to lower utility bills, choosing a WaterSense toilet can also make you eligible for local utility rebates or tax incentives, which can offset upfront costs. Check your local water provider’s website or visit EPA’s WaterSense Rebate Finder.

Recommended Water Saving Toilets

Here are three high-efficiency options that combine performance, style, and sustainability:

Horow 0.8 GPF/1.28 GPF High Efficiency Dual Flush Elongated Toilet

Buy now

Swiss Madison Chateau 0.8/1.28 GPF Dual Flush Elongated Toilet

Buy now

Toilet tank bank water conserving insert

Buy now

More Easy Wins for Cutting Your Utility Bills

Water saving toilets are just the start when it comes to conserving resources at home. If you're ready to take the next step, explore our top five simple upgrades that help reduce utility costs and boost overall efficiency. Looking to go even deeper? Our complete guide to home energy efficiency offers actionable tips for long-term savings.

Scope Zero’s Carbon Savings Account® (CSA) empowers you to make smart, sustainable choices. It helps you identify and afford impactful upgrades to your home and transportation — cutting your carbon footprint while lowering monthly bills. Learn how the CSA can support your sustainability goals and help you save.

Water Saving Toilets FAQs

Low-flow vs. dual flush toilets: which is better?

Both options offer substantial water savings, but dual flush toilets often outperform low-flow toilets by offering separate flush options for liquid and solid waste. This can save more water in households with frequent liquid flushes.

Can upgrading your toilet lower utility bills?

Yes. A water saving toilet can reduce your household water bill by up to 20–60%, especially if you’re upgrading from a pre-1990s model. This can lead to $170 in annual and $3,400 saved over the lifetime of the toilet.

What are the most efficient toilets for home use?

The most efficient toilets combine WaterSense certification, dual flush functionality, and a 0.8/1.28 GPF or lower rating. Look for reputable brands with strong reviews for both flushing power and water efficiency. Dual flush toilets most often provide the best balance between water savings and performance.

Drive positive outcomes for your wallet, your home, and the planet

Scope Zero’s Carbon Savings Account® (CSA) helps individuals lower their cost of living by making home and personal transportation upgrades affordable and accessible. The CSA is a financial wellness benefit that reduces cost of living, drives environmental impact, and engages employees in sustainability.

Learn more about the CSA